Nuclear, Chicco Testa: Without the atom, the transition is impossible;; Bersani: Let's discuss, no to the referendum now

At the event “Da Fermi al futuro,” organized by Open at the Ara Pacis, former Democratic Party leader Pier Luigi Bersani and nuclear energy advocate Chicco Testa expressed shared concerns over the need for long-term planning in Italy’s energy policy. Both emphasized that a strategy requiring investment and planning over fifteen to twenty years cannot be altered with each change of government. While their views on nuclear power differ, they agreed that political debates should focus on practical solutions rather than factional disputes. Bersani, who has historically supported nuclear energy, stressed that the debate must start with the structural increase in energy demand. He noted that all energy sources are growing globally, and none can serve as a complete alternative. He pointed to the rapid technological advancements in major companies, which highlight the scale of the challenge. The increasing consumption of electricity and water by data centers necessary for artificial intelligence, he warned, is becoming a pressing issue. In abstract terms, Bersani suggested that a fully adequate response to this energy transition might require fusion technology. However, he acknowledged that Italy must decide what to do in the meantime, while global regions continue to prepare for such developments. For Bersani, the solution must be European in scope. He argued that it is pragmatic, not ideological, to base Europe's energy autonomy on renewable sources, given the lack of fossil fuels and uranium within the continent. This implies a shift away from national-level decisions toward a broader, coordinated approach. He reiterated that Italy must remain engaged in research and development related to nuclear technologies, though with caution regarding timelines and costs. He cautioned against unrealistic expectations about the sequence of emerging technologies, such as small modular reactors (Smr), advanced modular reactors (Amr), and fusion, noting that the order of their availability remains uncertain. Bersani also addressed the possibility of a referendum on nuclear energy. He stated that he would prefer to avoid such a move at this time, suggesting instead a more structured approach. He endorsed the minister of environment and energy, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin’s, proposal to establish a procedural and legal framework before making further decisions. This, he argued, would provide clarity and prevent the issue from being used in daily political conflicts. He called for a bipartisan process, emphasizing the need for public programming to guide the development of available technologies and prevent chaos. Testa, meanwhile, echoed similar sentiments, arguing that without nuclear energy, the energy transition would be impossible. He highlighted that 70 percent of Italy’s electricity could come from green sources, but more than that would require additional measures. His comments underscored the complexity of balancing environmental goals with energy security and economic viability. Both men agreed that the current political climate makes it difficult to make definitive choices, and that a more stable, long-term vision is essential for progress.